Today Conte was in Catanzaro to receive an award and saw a large banner that read: ‘Ferguson-Manchester United = Conte-Juventus.’

“I will try,” he replied from the stage. “I will try to remain for all that time to achieve many victories and get closer to such an extraordinary and legendary personality as Sir Alex Ferguson.”

Fergie has been on the Manchester United bench since 1986, winning 12 Premier League titles, five FA Cups, four League Cups, 10 Community Shields, two Champions League trophies, one Cup Winners’ Cup, one UEFA Super Cup, one Intercontinental Cup and one Club World Cup.

“When my journey with Juventus is finished, then I will want to challenge myself abroad, but I hope that day is a long way away.

“The Juventus fans don’t need to show me their affection. I already know how much they care for me and the team.”